Knit Couture: 20 Hand-Knit Designs from Runway to Reality
by Gail Downey, Henry Conway
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Book Summary Information
Author: Gail Downey, Henry ConwayEdition: Hardcover
Published: 2007-12-26
ISBN: 0312375808
Number of pages: 144
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
Book Reviews of Knit Couture: 20 Hand-Knit Designs from Runway to Reality
Book Review: Insightful and inspiring
Summary: 5 Stars
I purchased this book, not because I have any ability to knit, but for my love of Weardowney. It first came to my attention on the company's website, and it was purchased for the coffee table, more than knitting knowledge enhancement.
However, I was surprised at how much this book engrossed me. It begins with an introduction to hand knitting followed by a look into the House of Weardowney, which in itself is intriguing. The first chapter `The Birth and Evolution of Knitting' is written in the style of essays on the Renaissance, complete with its art historical references and literary links, and is an excellent grounding to the rest of the book. After our background knowledge is in place, the second chapter looks into knitwear's move from practicality to high fashion. Coco Chanel, John Galliano and Vivienne Westwood all get a mention as `Knit Couture' sweeps the geographical and historical development of this `medium', and then discusses `Knit Today'. The writing is juxtaposed with luscious pictures of beautiful Weardowney creations, as well as high fashion examples from Kenzo, Jean Paul Gaultier and the like.
`Knit Couture' then focuses on Classic and Diffussion designs, some sparkley, some comfy, all of which are truly stunning! I am told by friends who can knit that the designs are easy to follow, and if it is too much for novices, there is a very helpful section at the back entitled `Starting Knitting' which goes through `Casting on', `Knit stitch' etc.
I could not recommend this book more to amateurs or experts. It is an enjoyable, insightful read and a visual feast into a side of fashion which is relatively unexplored. I found it a truly fantastic in its deviations. I may as an amateur attempt my own creations, or perhaps just leave the wondrous weavery to the experts!
Summary of Knit Couture: 20 Hand-Knit Designs from Runway to Reality
Gail Downey (half of the popular London label Weardowney) and Henry Conway present the philosophy and innovative designs that make up this vintage-inspired, fashion-forward design label. Vogue has said about their designs that they are like "old friends already" and Knit Couture offers twenty patterns based on their acclaimed designs plus an in-depth view of the world of fashion knitwear.
One of Weardowney's goals is to teach and inspire by offering modern-day knitters a window into the wider world of knitting---including the history of hand-knitting, the evolution of the medium, and an exploration of the craft within fashion and popular culture today. In addition, twenty designs, which remain true to the design philosohpy of Weardowney, are featured in full-color photography with easy-to-follow instructions.
From smart tunic dresses and tops to elegant cardigans and vintage-inspired skirts and sweaters, the designs are stylish, modern, and awe-inspiring and can be adapted to make them truly one of a kind, just like couture.
Boasting a comprehensive history, photography from past and present, stunning illustrations, and twenty exclusive designs, this is an imaginative and informative book that surely will inspire contemporary knitters and fashion lovers alike.
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